Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MPL-AT2512-6R8

Overview

MPL-AT2512-6R8 from Monolithic Power Systems is a low-profile molded power inductor with 6.8 µH nominal inductance, ±20% tolerance, 260 mΩ typical DCR, 1.4 A rated current (ΔT = 40 K), and 2.2 A saturation current at both 25°C and 100°C ambient - designed for compact DC-DC converters in battery-powered wearable devices.

For engineers reviewing the MPL-AT2512-6R8 datasheet, MPL-AT2512-6R8 package dimensions, MPL-AT2512-6R8 temperature rise vs. current curve, or MPL-AT2512-6R8 equivalent, this part supports high-frequency switching (up to 21 MHz self-resonant frequency), stable inductance over -40°C to +125°C operation, and low audible noise in space-constrained portable power stages.

Technical Context

This molded inductor uses composite magnetic material with soft saturation characteristics, enabling predictable inductance roll-off under overload while maintaining thermal stability up to +125°C case temperature. Its 2.5 mm × 2.0 mm × 1.2 mm footprint targets ultra-thin PCB layouts where height clearance is limited to ≤1.2 mm.

Electrical behavior is characterized at 100 kHz / 100 mA for inductance, with DC resistance measured on a standardized single-layer test board (35 µm Cu, 30 mm × 50 mm). Saturation thresholds are defined by 30% inductance drop at specified ambient temperatures - not peak pulse current limits.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

As a two-terminal passive inductor, MPL-AT2512-6R8 has no signal pins or active circuitry. It features a molded SMD package with exposed copper terminations on opposite ends of the rectangular body. The top marking includes a dot indicating start of winding. Recommended land pattern matches 0805 footprints with 0.90 mm pad length and 2.20 mm center-to-center spacing.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

MPL-AT2512-6R8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered wearables, high-frequency IoT SMPS, and portable medical sensors requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for MPL-AT2512-6R8 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Monolithic Power Systems (MPS) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-efficiency power management ICs and magnetics, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support centers.

MPL-AT2512 is MPS's low-profile molded inductor product line, engineered specifically for space-constrained, thermally demanding DC-DC applications in portable and always-on edge devices.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable PCB temperature rise when operating at rated current?

The rated current of 1.4 A is defined as the DC current causing a 40 K temperature rise above ambient on a standardized single-layer test board (35 µm Cu, 30 mm × 50 mm). Actual rise depends on copper area, layer count, and airflow - real-world measurements typically show 28–35 K rise on 4-layer boards with 1 oz Cu.

Does the 2.2 A saturation current apply equally at 100°C ambient?

Yes - the datasheet specifies identical 2.2 A typical ISAT at both 25°C and 100°C ambient, confirmed via controlled thermal chamber testing. This reflects the inductor's stable magnetic properties across its full operating range, unlike ferrite-core parts that degrade significantly at high temperature.

Can MPL-AT2512-6R8 replace traditional drum-core inductors in existing designs?

Yes, if footprint and height allow: it uses standard 0805-compatible land patterns (2.20 mm center-to-center, 0.90 mm pad length). However, its molded composite core delivers softer saturation and lower EMI than drum cores - re-optimization of compensation and loop stability may be needed after substitution.

Is the dot marking polarity-sensitive for circuit function?

The dot marks the start of winding and matters only for EMI control in differential layouts. When used in single-ended buck converters, polarity has no electrical effect. In multi-phase or coupled-inductor configurations, consistent dot orientation reduces common-mode noise coupling between phases.

What is the minimum recommended solder paste volume for reliable termination?

MPS recommends Type 4 or Type 5 solder paste with 125–150 µm stencil aperture thickness and 75% area ratio for the 0.90 mm × 1.20 mm terminations. Insufficient paste causes voiding and thermal fatigue; excessive paste risks bridging and tombstoning during reflow.

How does the 21 MHz self-resonant frequency impact 2 MHz SMPS designs?

At 2 MHz (≈10× below SRF), the inductor behaves as a near-ideal reactive element with minimal parasitic capacitance effects. Impedance remains dominantly inductive (>95% of ideal), ensuring predictable ripple attenuation and loop phase margin - no compensation adjustments are required solely due to SRF proximity.